Amicas, a provider of image and information management systems, has signed a definitive merger agreement to be acquired by an affiliate of the Chicago-based private equity investment firm Thoma Bravo in a transaction valued at approximately $217 million.

The Boston-based Amicas said its board of directors unanimously approved the agreement and resolved to recommend that the shareholders adopt the agreement.

“With the additional capital and operational expertise available to Amicas through Thoma Bravo, we will be able to grow," said Stephen Kahane MD, president, CEO and chairman of Amicas.

Under the terms of the agreement, Amicas said its shareholders will receive $5.35 in cash for each share of Amicas common stock they hold, representing a premium of approximately 24 percent more than Amicas' average closing share price during the 30 trading days ending Dec. 24, 2009, and a 38 percent premium more than Amicas' average closing share price during the 90 trading days ending Dec. 24, 2009.